The Washington Capitals held a conference call Saturday afternoon with new addition Joel Ward, formerly of the Nashville Predators. Ward was inked by Washington GM George McPhee to a four year deal Friday, reportedly worth $12 million. Ward played extremely well for the Predators in the 2011 Stanley Cup playoffs, amassing 13 points in 12 postseason games. Ward's playoff successes and flexibility seem to make him an excellent choice for the organization. I pulled a few choice quotes from conference call, highlighting what I mean:
When asked about the playoffs and if he perhaps could be the missing piece for the Capitals:
"I sure do. I love playoff hockey. I think it's such a fun time of year. Anytime you know you can make the playoffs every year and have a consistent shot to win the Stanley Cup, it's always a good feeling. That was one of the things I look forward to...I think everyone thrives on it. You want to try to hoist the Stanley Cup and that's what I'm going to try to do and hopefully bring that to D.C."
On his role flexibility and adaptability:
"I definitely know my role, whether it's to be you know 1, 2, 3, 4 you know, winning games is the main thing. And regardless of who I'm playing with I'm just gonna try to create some space for my linemates and get some opportunities and just be defensive sound and stick to details and listen to what coach Bruce Boudreau has to say and just try to execute the best I can."
On whether the Capitals were high on his list of possible teams to sign with:
"They were very high on my list. They were one of the teams where actually I was able to visit the city before. I like how they're made up and the skill level they have and I think that I can help in the back end so to speak. I've always liked what the Capitals have done every season and hope I can help push them over the edge."
I, for one, am looking forward to the new Joel Ward Era in D.C.